Sponsored Instruction Enables Real-World Design Experience

Georgia Tech students are participating in the NASA/USRA University Advanced Design Program. This sponsorship has enabled significant improvement in teaching the design process. The NASA support has facilitated the establishment of a design laboratory which typifies a professional design engineering office. Funding for data base searches and other expenses then allows real-world efficiency and experience for the students. Computer based in nature, the lab has ready access to on-line data bases, national networks, office automation and technical software. The conference area is used for team meetings, and frequent long-distant contacts with consultants and resource persons. Two graduate assistants have offices in the design lab and are readily available to the students. A marked increase in student productivity and interest in design is evident. Recognition of faculty for teaching design is also enhanced. This methodology is suggested as a meaningful way for industry to interface with the preparation of engineers at modest cost.